The Award In Action—Award Participant Shanyka Bhandary

 Report by Shanyka Bhandary, Grade X, JBCN International School, Borivali.

Reflecting on my Adventure Journey of The International Award for Young People, I remember the quote, "People forget years and remember moments."

As I approach the completion of the Bronze level of The Award Programme, guided by the dedicated coordination of Mrs. Madhuri Gour and the entire IAYP team, I can unequivocally say it has been a profoundly enriching experience. The International Award for Young People embodies a holistic and integrated approach to learning, weaving together elements of service and competence, which have unquestionably elevated my life skills. Life often presents challenges, but my expedition to Wada was a golden opportunity promising an extraordinary adventure filled with heart-pounding thrills and captivating beauty. This high-energy adventure led me to scale rocky peaks and zip-line through dense canopies. Navigating demanding terrain and embracing various wild challenges with expert guides allowed me to immerse myself in the natural magnificence of untouched landscapes. Engaging in courses like river crossing and commando training bolstered my self-confidence and physical strength, which are essential to overcoming adversity. I acquired organisational skills, honed my ability to use a compass to find my way through lush greenery, and mastered various knot-tying techniques. These skills enriched my knowledge and deepened my friendships with my peers. Furthermore, they contributed to my personal growth by enhancing my leadership and team coordination abilities, as exemplified in team activities such as terrorist treasure hunts, team obstacle courses, and quiz games. Interactions with indigenous people during the journey provided unique insights into their way of life, fostering a profound appreciation for local cultures and traditions. Capturing breathtaking moments through photography and encountering diverse wildlife in their natural habitats added another richness to this adventure. This experience seamlessly blended adrenaline-fueled excitement, encounters with natural wonders, and deep cultural immersion, leaving me with an insatiable appetite for more.

The Award In Action—Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala

Report by Rishita Pandey, IX-Commendables, Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala. 

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step! A crisp morning dawned as my classmates from IX Commendables and I embarked on an extraordinary journey as part of The International Award for Young People (IAYP). Our destination? The enchanting Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Vidya Mandir. Little did we know that this expedition would be more than a mere trip; it would be a transformative exploration of gratitude, empathy, and personal growth. Our visit to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Vidya Mandir was not just about observation; it was an opportunity for us to shoulder significant responsibilities and step into leadership roles. The girls from IX Commendables, myself included, were entrusted with the task of connecting with the female pupils of the school. This experience became an exercise in empathy, communication, and the profound power of building relationships. Simultaneously, our male counterparts took on the responsibility of engaging with the male pupils, an experience that led to the discovery of camaraderie, teamwork, and the essence of healthy competition. Among the most memorable aspects of our visit was witnessing the spirited participation of the pupils in various races and games on the school grounds. The energy was palpable, but what left an indelible mark was the unwavering sense of sportsmanship that pervaded every event. The spirit of competition was not about winning at all costs but about giving one's utmost while respecting the efforts of others. Prizes served as motivation, but the true reward lay in the inner drive to continually improve, push boundaries, and embrace both victory and defeat with grace. This experience etched in us the profound significance of sports in character building and promoting unity. One of the most poignant moments of our visit was our interaction with the youngest members of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Vidya Mandir. Spending time with the infants, endeavoring to bring smiles to their faces, revealed an overwhelming sense of compassion and love that permeated the room. Witnessing their resilience in the face of adversity and the unwavering support they received from the school staff was a deeply humbling experience. It served as a stark reminder of the privileges and opportunities we are blessed with in our lives. This encounter left an indelible mark, teaching us the impact of kindness and empathy, even in the most challenging circumstances. It underscored the idea that small acts of compassion can ripple outward, creating a significant and positive impact on the world. Our visit to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Vidya Mandir was a transformative odyssey, reshaping the trajectory of our lives. It etched within us a deep sense of gratitude, empathy, and personal growth. As I returned to my school, I carried with me not just a trove of memories but a steadfast commitment to effect positive change in the world. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Vidya Mandir transcended being a mere visit; it became a perpetual source of inspiration and a poignant reminder of the enduring values that continue to shape my life's journey. This journey reaffirmed that education extends beyond textbooks; it encompasses the nurturing of character and the practice of empathy.

The Award In Action—Ram Ratna Vidya Mandir, Mumbai

Report by Mr. Amit Mathur, IAYP Coordinator, Ram Ratna Vidya Mandir

Ram Ratna Vidya Mandir, has been actively participating in The International Award for Young People, and we recently organized a tree plantation drive to contribute to the environment and our community. We are thrilled to have completed this project, and we have documented it through a series of photographs.
We believe that these images capture the essence of our Award Participants' commitment to environmental sustainability and community service. The event was a tremendous success, and we are proud of our contribution to the community because of The Award Programme.

The Award In Action—Gold Award Participant Priyasha Sharma

Report by Priyasha Sharma, Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi 

Introduction In 2021, I embarked on a transformative journey with The International Award for Young People. Over the course of two years, I engaged in a variety of activities that challenged me, broadened my horizons, and gave me a sense of discipline and consistency that I will carry forward in my future endeavours.  Participation at the Gold Level As a participant at the gold level, I dedicated myself to a range of activities spanning different areas: 1. Skills Development: Over 78 hours, I honed my skills in writing music. This creative endeavour allowed me to express myself in new ways and appreciate the nuances of musical composition. The process of creating music from scratch enhanced my creativity and patience, and the joy of completing a piece provided a sense of accomplishment. 2. Physical Recreation: I committed 52 hours to walking, an activity that not only improved my physical fitness but also provided me with time for reflection and appreciation of my surroundings. The regular physical activity helped me build stamina and resilience, while the quiet moments during walks offered opportunities for introspection and idea generation. 3. Voluntary Service: As the Senior Managing Editor of DU Express, I spent 52 hours leading the organization. This role taught me valuable lessons in leadership, teamwork, and the importance of clear communication. It also gave me a sense of responsibility and the opportunity to make a positive impact on my community. 4. Adventurous Journey: From 12th to 16th October 2021, I embarked on a trekking adventure in Triyund Trek, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India. This journey tested my physical endurance and resilience, while also offering breathtaking views and a deep connection with nature. The trek taught me the importance of perseverance and the rewards of stepping out of my comfort zone. Impact of The Award Programme IAYP has had a profound impact on my personal and professional development. It has given me a sense of discipline and consistency, which I believe are invaluable traits for success in any field. The diverse range of activities I engaged in have not only broadened my skill set but also enriched my life experiences. Each activity, in its own unique way, has contributed to my growth and shaped me into a more well-rounded individual. Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend The International Award for Young People to my fellow young people in college. The programme offers a unique opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, engage in meaningful service, and challenge oneself physically and mentally. The experiences and lessons learned through IAYP are invaluable and will undoubtedly contribute to personal growth and future success!

The Award In Action—Pinegrove School, Dharampur

Report by Ms. Ujala Chauhan, Pinegrove School. Dharampur

In a collaborative effort, Award participants from Pinegrove School Dharampur under the Aasmaan project organized a Rakhi Weekend initiative on 29th August, 2023. The aim was to sell handmade rakhis and raise funds for two dedicated support staff members to help alleviate their medical challenges.

Almost 200 young people from various classes, participated in crafting beautiful handmade rakhis, imbued with care and empathy. These rakhis were tangible expressions of the blossoming talents and core values found within Pinegrove's walls. The initiative, not only aimed to raise funds but also to foster a sense of community and purpose.

Parents, Students, and Faculty Members approached the display of rakhis with twinkling eyes. Everyone displayed remarkable enthusiasm for this initiative. The rakhis, which were not assigned a fixed price, received an overwhelming response, connecting hearts rather than pockets. The lack of fixed pricing allowed for flexible contributions based on individuals' willingness and capacity to give.

The success of this initiative highlights the great power of collective action with a shared purpose.

The Award In Action—BGES School, Kolkata

Report by Bronze Award participant, BGES School, Kolkata.

Everybody loves tasty food, isn’t it? Through my experience with cooking as part of the skill section of The International Award for Young People, I've come to realize that food prepared by your own hands tastes even more delightful! Cooking is a skill that requires an understanding of how to prepare dishes and knowing the essential ingredients needed for each recipe. While cooking may not always be an effortless endeavor, it demands patience and dedication. This training has reinforced my belief that cooking is not akin to rocket science.

These culinary skills have not only enriched our palates but have also provided us with a window into the diverse cultures and traditions of the world. Food undeniably plays a pivotal role in everyone's lives, and by honing these skills, we are equipping ourselves to become adept multitaskers in the future. Cooking encompasses more than just using a stove to prepare delectable dishes; it is the art of transforming raw vegetables and basic ingredients into simple and edible food which is important for survival.

We made various dishes like Thai Curry with Jasmine Rice, Paneer Kulcha, Chole Bhature and Au Gratin. Cooking sessions have provided us with unforgettable memories which we expect to cherish in the future.

I also wish to extend an encouraging invitation to my fellow juniors to participate in The International Award for Young People and get the best of the experiences that we have had.

The Award In Action—Bawa Lalwani Public School, Kapurthala

 Report by Aman Kumar, IX-Blossoms, Bawa Lalwani Public School, Kapurthala.

In every Community, there is work to be done!
In every Nation, there are wounds to heal!
In every Heart, there is the POWER to do it!

During my recent visit to Kushat Ashram in Kapurthala, I had the opportunity to witness the profound impact of social service and community support on the lives of those who are less fortunate. Upon our arrival, my companions and I distributed food to the residents of the Ashram. The smiles on their faces upon receiving this simple gesture were heart-warming. It was clear that they faced daily challenges, particularly children who lacked adequate food and clothing. This realization struck a chord within us, motivating us to provide both clothing and sustenance to tackle their hardships. Our involvement in the Ashram was a humbling experience, and we felt privileged to spend time with the residents. Interacting with the community at Kushat Ashram allowed me to understand their challenges and hardships. This experience cultivated a deep sense of empathy within me. I could see life from different perspectives, which helped me become a more compassionate and understanding person.
Subsequently, we visited Gurudwara Sahib, where we engaged in cleanliness and Langar Sewa. Participating in activities like cleaning at Gurudwara Sahib and contributing to Langar Sewa instilled a strong sense of responsibility in me. I realized that I had a role to play in maintaining cleanliness in my surroundings and serving the community. This responsibility extended beyond myself and enriched my sense of duty towards society. My involvement in social service and community activities reinforced the joy that comes from helping others without expecting anything in return. This selfless act of service not only benefited those in need but also nourished my own spirit, making me more willing to contribute positively to society.



Through this, I was exposed to various social issues and challenges faced by different sections of society. This heightened awareness of the inequalities and difficulties people endure motivated me to be more socially conscious and work towards creating a more equitable and just society. These experiences were transformative for my personal growth. They taught me valuable life lessons about humility, kindness, and the importance of community engagement. I became more open-minded, adaptable, and willing to embrace diversity. The lessons learned during this visit are likely to stay with me throughout my life. They became a part of my core values and will guide my actions and decisions in the future. I am now more inclined to engage in charitable and humanitarian efforts as a responsible citizen.
In conclusion, this visit as part of my Award Journey significantly contributed to my growth as a human being by instilling empathy, responsibility, and a giving spirit. These experiences not only enriched my moral and ethical values but also empowered me to make a positive impact on society. I am on a path to becoming a compassionate and responsible citizen who understands the value of contributing to the well being of others and the community as a whole.

The International Award for Young People, India has played an important role in making me understand the mantra - ‘In the joy of others, we find our own.’
Thank you IAYP!

The Award In Action—Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala

Report by Sparsh Joshi, Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala 

One of the most important lessons under The International Award for Young People that I have learned is that voluntary and social service is all about promoting social change, development, cohesion, and the empowerment of people & communities. Basically, social service has taught me the significance of empathy. Through my work with the Voluntary Service section of The Award Programme, I have seen first-hand the struggles that many people go through on a daily basis. It has made me appreciate the things that I have in my own life and has taught me to be more compassionate towards others. Another lesson that social service has taught me is the power of community. When we work together towards a common goal, we can achieve so much more than we ever could on our own. Whether it is a group of volunteers coming together to feed the homeless or a community rallying around a family in need, the support of others can make all the difference. Social service has taught me that no matter how small our actions may seem, they can have a significant impact on the lives of others. A kind word, a smile, or a simple act of kindness can brighten someone's day and remind them that they are not alone. I have not only experienced doing cleanliness and sewa at Gurudwara Sahib, but I also understand how such an experience could teach someone about humanity and social service for mankind. Serving others without any selfish motives is an essential aspect of many cultures and religions. By volunteering to clean the Gurudwara, I am able to express my devotion to the community and willingness to serve others. This act of service helps me create a sense of belonging to a larger community and provides an essential service to those who seek solace in the Gurudwara.

The Award In Action—Pinegrove School, Dharampur

Report by Ms. Ujala Chauhan, Pinegrove School, Dharampur

A group of 15 enthusiastic Award participants and 2 teachers from Pinegrove School, Dharampur engaged in a heartwarming interaction at Sewa Bharti Awasiya Parisar in Dagshai on 13th August 2023.

The interaction fostered connections and understanding with the local children hailing from under-resourced backgrounds. They shared their aspirations and dreams for the future. Engaging in thoughtful conversations, the young minds discussed their plans and strategies to achieve their goals, finding common ground despite their different life circumstances.

As an expression of unity, musical performances were presented while sharing their talents and spreading joy. The performances not only entertained but also deepened the bond formed during the encounter. Displaying generosity and compassion, Award participants from Pinegrove extended their support by contributing sports shoes and stationary items. Additionally, they had snacks, creating a pleasant atmosphere where both groups could enjoy a well-deserved break together.

This visit was a poignant eye-opener revealing the challenges faced by those from less fortunate backgrounds. The experience served as a reminder that life's journey is not always straightforward, and a spirit of empathy and willingness to help can make a significant impact. The interaction left a lasting impression on the Grovians who expressed a strong desire to learn more about their new friends and extend their assistance further. It showcased the power of connection and empathy, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among the Award participants.

The Award In Action—The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet

Report by Mrs. Latha Soorishetty, Award Leader at The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet

A Student Orientation session of the International Award for Young People (IAYP) was organized on Friday June 23, 2023 for Grades IX & XI at The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet. More than 200 young people were part of this orientation programme!

Mrs. Latha Soorishetty, the Award Leader for the YES center HPSB, hosted the programme under the guidance of the Principal Dr. Skand Bali and the Vice Principal Mrs. Amritha Chandra Raju. The Student Orientation was based on the key aspects of introduction of Award, Philosophy of Award, Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, Adventurous Journey, etc., and the objective was to introduce the Award Programme, its ideologies and benefits to the young minds.

Principal Dr. Skand Bali was invited to the program to address the students. He highlighted the advantages of The Award Programme and its power to bring about a difference in the lives of young people. He also highlighted the importance of The Award with some success stories or experiences of Award holders. This motivated our young people to enroll for The Award Programme.

The orientation concluded with a doubt clarification session for students who expressed interest in enrolling for the programme. Overall, the student orientation effectively inspired students to enroll and a total of 65 students from The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet have enthusiastically registered for the upcoming year, 2023-24.

The Award In Action—HAL New Public School, Bangalore

Report by Preet Kaur, HAL New Public School, Bangalore

The orientation and felicitation programme was organized to celebrate the achievement of young people who successfully completed the bronze level of the International Award for Young People. Mr. Bivujit Mukhoty, Programme Manager for IAYP was invited as Chief Guest for the same. The event aimed to recognize the commitment, perseverance, and personal development of young people throughout the challenging journey. The programme included informative sessions by Mr. Bivujit Mukhoty on the benefits of the Award, guidance on progressing to the next level, and inspirational speeches by accomplished individuals. The participants were felicitated with certificates and badges, acknowledging their accomplishments. The event provided a platform for young people of HAL New Public School, Bangalore to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and encourage others to participate in this prestigious international programme. It served as a motivation for them to continue their pursuit of personal growth and excellence.

Award Alumni Interview Series : Episode 2

We are thrilled to share the second episode of our Alumni Interview Series🚀

In conversation with our team, Siddharth Mathur, a Silver Award holder remembers his Award Journey, and hopes to encourage young people to pursue the Award!

The interview is live on our YouTube Channel : https://lnkd.in/dV2AWXz5

#WorldReady

The Award In Action—PYDS Learning Academy

 

On July 16th, the enthusiastic and eco-conscious Award participants of PYDS Learning Academy embarked on a meaningful journey to participate in a plantation drive organized by 'Punaha Aranya.' This noble initiative aimed to revive and rejuvenate the lush greenery in the vicinity. The venue for this inspiring event was Thano Range, situated on the Dehradun-Rishikesh Highway. The plantation drive was perfectly timed to coincide with the revered Uttarakhand festival called Harela, also known as The Day of Green. This festival holds special significance as it celebrates the essence of greenery, peace, prosperity, and environmental conservation in Uttarakhand. The day commenced at 09:30 am with the young people motivated and ready for action. Together, they planted a remarkable total of 119 samplings, which included vibrant Hibiscus, the delicate Hummingbird Bush, the majestic Trumpet Bush, and the magnificent Magnolia Grandiflora. As they immersed themselves in this hands-on experience, they also raised catchy slogans on environment conservation, further fueling the enthusiasm and energy of the event. The successful completion of the plantation drive marked the beginning of more engaging activities. Young people wholeheartedly participated in a story-making competition, where their imaginations soared to create tales of nature's beauty and the importance of preserving it. Additionally, they engaged in an informative quiz on environment protection, testing their knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of ecological matters. Overall, the day was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on the young minds of the Award participants. They are now passionate advocates for green living, dedicated to raising awareness about preserving nature for generations to come!